By Mphatso M’bang’ombe:
As Malawi prepares for the general elections on September 16, the National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Public Trust says it is ramping up efforts to safeguard the democratic process by training a new team of roving observers.
In Dowa, 20 observers have undergone intensive training to use a cutting-edge system called ‘Masoathu’, which enables them to collect real-time data on incidents during polling day.
According to Nice Planning and Research Specialist Peter Maluwa, this technology is central to a coordinated effort between Nice and its partners to ensure transparency.
“Our commitment is to ensure that every incident reported on polling day contributes to the integrity of the electoral process. It is vital that we collect accurate data to uphold the values of democracy,” Maluwa said.
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He added that the initiative aims to promote free, fair and credible elections by identifying and responding to any issues as they arise.
“Through these observers, we are not just watching; we are taking proactive steps to safeguard the electoral process and uphold democratic principles,” he said.
Maluwa further said that the public trust plans to train a total of 409 roving observers across the country ahead of the elections.
One of the trainees, Kingsley Mlozi from Dowa East Constituency, expressed his dedication to the task.
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“I pledge to uphold the principles of impartiality and diligence. We have a responsibility to ensure that the election reflects the will of the people, and I am committed to playing my part,” Mlozi said.
Nice is implementing this initiative with support from the European Union, the United Nations Development Programme, Oxfam and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa.
Similar training sessions are taking place in other parts of the country ahead of the elections, during which Malawians will elect ward councillors, members of Parliament and a president.
